FERGUS – When it comes to vehicle maintenance there’s always something to consider.
Jamie Holmes of Shortreed Auto Centre in Elora recently offered his top five tips to get a vehicle ready for the upcoming winter season.
Winter tires
He said it’s imperative to have good snow tires with lots of tread that is soft.
“If you have an older tire it tends to harden and then the snow tire’s not as good,” Holmes said.
Emergency Car kit
Another tip was to ensure that every car has an emergency car kit, whether it be purchased or created.
The government of Canada recommends emergency car kits include items like food that won’t spoil, plastic water bottles, a blanket, extra clothing and shoes, a seatbelt cutter, small shovel, scraper, snowbrush, candle with a deep can and matches, wind-up flashlight, whistle, road maps and a copy of the emergency plan and personal documents.
The government also recommends keeping the following in the trunk: sand, salt or cat litter; antifreeze/windshield washer fluid; tow rope; jumper cables; fire extinguisher; and warning lights or road flares.
Fluid check
Holmes said it’s important to check all vehicle fluids heading into the winter season. He said at the very least drivers should ensure coolant levels are up and that coolant Freon is a good temperature, about -40 C.
He also said to ensure summer windshield wiper fluid is switched out for winter windshield wiper fluid that’s good for up to -40.
Windshield wipers
In a similar vein, Holmes said to check that windshield wipers are in good condition. What makes a good windshield wiper depends on the car and what the driver expects.
Another option to improve visibility in rainy or snowy conditions is to put a water repellent coating on the windshield so the water beads upon impact.
Battery check
Another tip is to check the car’s battery strength before the cold weather hits. If the battery is weak it can be replaced, preventing the driver from being stranded in the winter cold when trying to turn on the car.
Time frame
Holmes said there isn’t a specific date to be prepared for winter.
It depends on the season and whether insurance companies require snow tire installation by a specific date.
